Cookies & Tracking Policy

This Cookies & Tracking Policy explains how GeoServer and our service providers use cookies and similar tracking technologies when you visit our websites, use our applications, or interact with our geospatial services. By continuing to use our platforms, you consent to the use of these technologies as described herein.

1. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files stored on your device (computer, tablet, or mobile phone) when you visit a website. They help websites function properly, remember your preferences, and provide information to site owners. We also use similar technologies like web beacons, pixels, and local storage to enhance your experience and analyze usage patterns.

2. Types of Cookies We Use

We categorize cookies based on their function and necessity:

• Essential Cookies: Required for core platform functionality, authentication, security, and load balancing. These cannot be disabled.
• Analytics & Performance Cookies: Help us understand how visitors interact with our platform, track performance metrics, and optimize map rendering speeds.
• Functional Cookies: Remember your preferences (language, region, map projection settings, UI themes) to provide a personalized experience.
• Marketing & Advertising Cookies: Used to deliver relevant content, track campaign effectiveness, and limit ad frequency. These are set with your explicit consent.

3. Tracking Technologies Beyond Cookies

In addition to cookies, we may use:

• Server Logs: IP addresses, browser types, device info, and requested URLs are automatically logged for security, debugging, and infrastructure optimization.
• Embedded Pixels & Web Beacons: Invisible 1x1 images used in emails and dashboard notifications to track open rates and interaction metrics.
• SDKs & Third-Party Scripts: Libraries integrated for map rendering (Leaflet/Mapbox GL), authentication (Auth0), and support widgets (Intercom) that may collect usage data.

4. Third-Party Services

We work with trusted third-party providers to enhance our geospatial platform. These providers may set their own cookies and collect data in accordance with their respective privacy policies. Notable partners include:

• Cloudflare (CDN, security, performance optimization)
• Google Analytics 4 (traffic & behavior analytics)
• Hotjar (UX heatmaps & session recordings, pseudonymized)
• Auth0 / Okta (identity & access management)
• Stripe / Paddle (payment processing & billing)

5. Managing Your Cookie Preferences

You have full control over how cookies and tracking technologies are used on your device:

• Consent Manager: Our platform includes a cookie preference banner on first visit. Click "Manage Preferences" to toggle categories on/off.
• Browser Settings: Most browsers allow you to block, delete, or limit cookies. Visit your browser's help section for instructions:
• Chrome: Settings → Privacy and security → Cookies
• Safari: Preferences → Privacy → Manage website data
• Firefox: Options → Privacy & Security → Cookies
• Edge: Settings → Cookies and site permissions
• Opt-Out Tools: Use industry standards like Google Ads Opt-Out, Your Online Choices, or browser privacy extensions.

Important: Disabling essential cookies may prevent you from accessing secure areas, saving map configurations, or using billing features. Blocking all cookies may impact platform functionality.

6. Data Retention & Security

Cookies and tracking data are retained only as long as necessary to fulfill their purpose. Analytics data is typically anonymized and aggregated within 14 months. All data transmission is encrypted via TLS 1.3. We implement strict access controls, regular security audits, and automated expiration policies to protect your information.

7. Updates to This Policy

We may update this Cookies & Tracking Policy to reflect changes in technology, regulatory requirements, or our data practices. Material changes will be communicated via platform notifications or email. The "Last Updated" date at the bottom of this page indicates when the current version took effect.

8. Contact Us

If you have questions about our cookie practices, need assistance managing your preferences, or wish to request data access/deletion, please contact our Data Protection Team: